The Future of Consumerist

Over the last twelve years, Consumerist has been a steadfast proponent and voice on behalf of consumers, from exposing shady practices by secretive cable companies to pushing for action against dodgy payday lenders. Now, we’re joining forces with Consumer Reports, our parent organization, to cultivate the next generation of consumer advocacy.

Stay tuned as Consumerist’s current and future content finds its home as a part of the Consumer Reports brand. In the meantime, you can access existing Consumerist content below, and we encourage you to visit Consumer Reports to read the latest consumer news.

Thousands of Texas residents have been displaced following Hurricane Harvey’s landfall over the weekend. While many of these people no doubt traveled to stay with friends and family outside of the affected areas, others don’t have those options. Instead, they’ve sought refuge from rising flood waters at community centers, shelters… and furniture stores.

Houston furniture chain Gallery Furniture announced Sunday that it would open two stores to serve as shelters for families fleeing the storm and its aftermath.

The company revealed its plan to open the locations as shelters on Facebook over the weekend, noting that the stores had food, beds, and clean restrooms for anyone in need. Pets are also welcome at the stores, as long as they are kenneled and remain by their owners.

According to the posts, the company even sent out its largest moving truck to pick up stranded residents and bring them back to the store.

Owner Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale tells the Houston Chronicle that the stores are able to accommodate a few hundred people each.

“We hope to give them some comfort in this incredibly difficult time,” McIngvale said.

Our GF N FRWY & GF Grand Parkway locations are open for those in need.If you can safely join us, we invite you for free food & safe shelter. pic.twitter.com/NqNdLo2iIP